Hey Friends,

I read an amazing blog yesterday by Ed Stetzer. I had already learned of the “One Way Missionaries.” There were missionaries that sold all they had and bought a one-way ticket to a dangerous place, knowing they would lose their lives. It still happens today but most of the media will not report it; they wouldn’t want Christ-followers in a good light.

One of the things the One Way Missionaries did was to write a letter before they left. Here is my attempt at it, as some of you might want to try the letter. I believe it will help us prioritize our lives:

If you are reading this then I am with Jesus. I know it is a sad day for my family and friends but it is not for me. I am in the arms of my Heavenly Father where I have wanted to be since the day I was saved in 1982. One day we will all be together here in heaven, but until then serve our Lord.

Michele, no man could have ever asked for a better wife. You have been my constant companion for this amazing journey, and life was so much better with you. You loved me regardless and sometimes I was not easy to love. You pushed me to go on for the prize in serving the Lord when others would have had me stall out. You always put me and the kids and the ministry first. You are one of the most selfless people I have ever known. I count you as one of the greatest gifts God ever gave me. “He that finds a good wife finds a good thing.” God did it for me. I would have married you 1000 times over. I know you are hurting but take solace in the fact we will be together and you were amazing in so many respects.

Faith (Bug), I couldn’t be more proud of you. You love Jesus and you are an independent woman. You have great leadership gifts and abilities and I pray you use them for Jesus and His Kingdom. You married well and I believe Frankie will take care of you no matter what, or I will come back and haunt him. I love you, Frankie, just like one of my sons. Stand strong and serve the Lord. You also have been given many gifts that I pray are used for Jesus. You two keep laughing, smiling, and serving the Lord.

Micah Man, what can I say? You are one of my best friends and you were always there for me. I could count on you when no one else would help. In my mind I still see you as a five-year-old boy cleaning up the yard in the rain. I pray you will serve Jesus more faithfully than you helped your dad. You are an anointed man of God. Always bow your knee to Jesus and put Him first. He has plans for you that will blow your mind. You don’t know how much I love you. I believe you feel it now as you read this letter.

Zac (or should I say Superman!), like Micah you are one of  my best friends. As I write this and think back, hanging out with you was one of my favorite things to do. You are a man mighty in stature, but that is in the flesh. I believe your great strength and power is in the Spirit. You have insight into the Spiritual few have. You can swing the Sword with power and change lives forever. Keep putting God first and impacting His Kingdom – you will never be sorry.

FPC and Staff, what can I say? You guys were my family. I loved coming to work daily. I could list every one one of you, as I prayed for you more than you know. Josh and Glo, I know this is hard but stand strong. Josh, keep the vision fresh and hot. FPC has just begun. It was never about me.

I will be waiting for you guys in heaven. Michele, you won’t have to look for me - I will be at the gate waiting like the father did for the prodigal son. I am so proud of all of you. I know you are crying today, but soon Jesus will wipe away all of your tears. Remember as for me, NO REGRETS! Jesus is my Lord and I tried to give Him my all. It is the least I could do in light of His cross.

With all my love,

Chris

P.S. Wow, my heart is so full as I write this blog. I am mega-blessed! I hope you try this discipline; it might be heart-opening.